Writing an Advice Email
Objectives
- Structure legal advice (issue, rule, application, conclusion)
- Hedge appropriately
- Give clear recommendations
Explanation
Structure advice emails: 1) Issue (the question), 2) Short answer, 3) Analysis (law applied to facts), 4) Recommendation and next steps. Use hedging when uncertain: 'it is likely that', 'in our view', 'subject to'. Avoid guarantees: never write 'you will definitely win'.
short answer
A brief direct response at the start of advice.
“Short answer: yes, you can terminate.”
in our view
Phrase introducing a professional opinion.
“In our view, the clause is enforceable.”
likely
Probable.
“It is likely that the court will agree.”
subject to
Depending on; conditional upon.
“Subject to the documents, we can proceed.”
to recommend
To advise a course of action.
“We recommend sending a formal notice.”
Flashcards
Match terms and definitions
short answer
in our view
likely
subject to
to recommend
Complete the sentences
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